Week 3 Discussion: Building Home-School Partnerships in Early Childhood Education

Educators recognize the value of strong connections between families and schools for supporting young children’s growth. This discussion invites students to consider ways these partnerships influence early learning. Participants share ideas on effective strategies and their links to developmental outcomes.

Discussion Instructions

Post an initial response of 300 to 500 words that examines the role of home-school partnerships in early childhood settings. Identify two or three strategies teachers use to involve families, such as regular communication or family events. Connect these approaches to child development principles and explain how they contribute to positive learning experiences. Refer to NAEYC guidelines and course materials in your response.

Respond to at least two classmates’ posts with replies of 150 to 200 words each. Offer additional examples or questions that extend the conversation. Include citations where appropriate to support your points.

Participation Requirements

• Submit the initial post by mid-week to allow time for replies.
• Use APA style for any references in posts and responses.
• Engage respectfully and build on others’ ideas.

Grading Rubric

1. Initial Post Content (40 points): Response addresses partnerships with clear strategies and development links.
2. Connections to Theory (30 points): Integrates NAEYC standards and relevant sources effectively.
3. Replies to Peers (20 points): Provides thoughtful, substantive feedback to classmates.
4. Mechanics and Formatting (10 points): Writing shows clarity, proper grammar, and correct citations.

Total: 100 points

 Families contribute unique insights into a child’s background that enhance classroom activities. Teachers send weekly newsletters to share updates and invite input from parents. These efforts strengthen trust and align home and school goals for better child engagement.

Epstein, J.L., 2018. School, family, and community partnerships: Preparing educators and improving schools. 2nd ed. New York: Routledge. DOI: 10.4324/9780429494673. Available at: https://www.routledge.com/School-Family-and-Community-Partnerships-Preparing-Educators-and-Improving/Epstein/p/book/9780813344478.

Keyser, J., 2019. From parents to partners: Building a family-centered early childhood program. 2nd ed. St. Paul: Redleaf Press. Available at: https://www.redleafpress.org/From-Parents-to-Partners-Building-a-Family-Centered-Early-Childhood-Program-Second-Edition-P1802.aspx.

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), 2020. Engaging diverse families: Position statement. Washington, DC: NAEYC. Available at: https://www.naeyc.org/resources/position-statements/engaging-diverse-families.

Sheridan, S.M., Knoche, L.L., Edwards, C.P., Kupzyk, K.A., Clarke, B.L. and Kim, E.M., 2022. Efficacy of the Getting Ready intervention implemented in a randomized controlled trial: Effects on teacher-child interactions and relationships. Early Childhood Research Quarterly, 58, pp.200-211. DOI: 10.1016/j.ecresq.2021.09.005. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S088520062100144X.